ALBANY — SOCIAL WORKERS RALLIED at the state Capitol on Wednesday to advocate for the Social Work Workforce Act. This legislation aims to remove one of two required licensing exams for social workers, with workers charging that the Association of Social Work Board Exam has a content bias that hinders entry into the profession, particularly for diverse and non-native English-speaking candidates.
The act seeks to expand licensing paths, enhancing cultural competency and representation within the social work field. By eliminating barriers, rally attendees said, the initiative promises to fortify mental health services, addressing a critical need for accessible, culturally responsive care in neighborhoods most impacted by mental health challenges.
The rally was organized by the Social Workers for Justice Coalition, which includes the National Association of Social Workers, NAMI-NYC, the Latino Social Work Coalition and the National Association of Puerto Rican and Hispanic Social Workers.
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